Russia Bans Prime-Time Alcohol Ads

Seeking to protect children from alcoholism, the Russian legislature has banned alcohol ads from television between the hours of 10 a.m. and 7 p.m., the Sydney Morning Herald reported Aug. 3.

The move comes amid reports that 22,000 Russians under the age of 14 are addicted to alcohol. The legislation also will bar alcohol ads featuring people, animals, or cartoon figures, as well as ads that suggest that drinking will help consumers reach goals, improve health or mental capacity, or slake thirst. Ads on magazine and newspaper covers also will be prohibited.

Per-capita beer consumption in Russia has risen dramatically in recent years, from 37 liters annually in 1999 to 51 liters in 2003. Brewers have objected to the ad ban, even as they insist they don't want to sell beer to children under 18.